This archive report was first published on 11 May 2020.
On May 11, 2020, Mike Tyson announced his return to the ring in four-round exhibition bouts, a move that has left many in awe of his incredible weight loss transformation.
At 53, Tyson has never been in better shape, thanks to a vegan diet and the guidance of renowned mixed martial arts trainer Rafael Cordeiro.
Cordeiro, who has trained many heavyweights, was impressed by Tyson's speed and power, likening it to that of a 21-22 year old fighter.
"As soon as we started training I said ‘My Lord'. I didn’t know what to expect from a guy who hasn’t hit mitts for – I think – almost ten years," Cordeiro told ESPN.
"So I didn’t expect to see what I saw – I saw a guy with the same speed, the same power as a guy who is 21, 22-years-old," Cordeiro added.
Cordeiro also praised Tyson's ability to put pressure on his opponents, a skill that has been a hallmark of Tyson's fighting style.
After struggling to adapt to life without boxing following his defeat by Kevin McBride in 2005, Tyson's weight shot up to 27 stone as he battled drink and drug problems.
However, he eventually restored his health by ditching meat and embarking on a strict exercise routine.
Today, Tyson is a successful businessman, having starred in a one-man show on Broadway and launched his own cannabis ranch.
